Operator requirements and training

All underground storage tank (UST) facilities are required to designate a Class A, Class B, and Class C operator to the facility, with some exceptions for unattended facilities. Class A, B, and C operators must be either the owner or operator of the facility or an employee of the owner or operator. Definitions and responsibilities for each class of operator are outlined below.

Exam required for Class A and B operators

Class A and B operators of underground storage tanks must pass an exam to ensure knowledge of safe operating and maintenance procedures.

Responsibilities for Class A, B, and C operators

There are multiple options for designating the Class A and B operators:

You can have one person designated as the Class A operator and another as the Class B operator;

The same person can be designated as the Class A and Class B operator;

Multiple people can be designated for each operator class;

One person can be the designated operator for multiple facilities.

Class A operator

In general, the Class A operator has the primary responsibility to operate and maintain the UST system. Their focus is on the broader aspects of regulatory requirements and standards. The Class A operator would ensure that the appropriate individuals are assigned and trained to properly operate and maintain the UST system, maintain appropriate records, and properly respond to emergencies such as spills or releases.

The Class A operator will be tested on their general knowledge, so that they can make informed decisions regarding compliance and ensure the operation and maintenance tasks are being properly completed. Test topic areas include:

Spill prevention

Overfill prevention

Release detection

Emergency response

Release reporting

Secondary containment

Notification requirements

Class B operator

The Class B Operator is responsible for the day-to-day operations and for implementing the applicable requirements and standards at the facility. The Class B Operator is required to be onsite at least monthly, except unattended card-lock facilities, to verify that all appropriate operational and maintenance tasks have been completed. A Class B operator has an in-depth understanding of all operation and maintenance aspects of the tank system, including:

Knowing tank system components and the materials they are constructed of.

Knowledge of how to implement release detection methods.

Knowledge of operation and maintenance requirements, including:

Spill prevention

Overfill prevention

Release detection

Corrosion protection

Emergency response

Product compatibility

The Class B operator will only be tested on the tank system components and methods that are in place at their facility. Topic areas include: spill prevention, overfill prevention, release detection, corrosion protection, emergency response, reporting, and record keeping requirements.

Class C operator

The Class C operator(s) is on-site daily and is responsible as the initial responder to handle emergencies and alarms pertaining to a spill or release. This operator is typically an employee who controls or monitors the dispensing or sale of product. This operator is required to be trained by the Class A or Class B operator.

A facility can designate as many Class C operators as they feel necessary to be in compliance with the requirements. At a minimum, one Class C operator (or an A or B operator) must be on-site while the tank system is operating, except at unattended cardlock facilities.

The Class C operator is not required to pass an exam, however he/she must be trained in the appropriate emergency response procedures.

Unattended card-lock facilities

An “unattended card-lock facility” is a facility where the control of dispensing of a regulated substance is through a mechanical or electronic method without the constant on-site presence of a Class A, Class B or Class C operator. Examples of these types of facilities include fleet fueling facilities, “unmanned” service stations and sites with an emergency generator.

Unattended card-lock facilities have special exemptions under the Operator Requirements rule. These facilities must have a sign posted in a conspicuous place with the name and address of the facility and the telephone number of the facility owner, operator, or local emergency responders. This is in place of the facility having a Class A or Class B operator on-site during operation of the tank system.

Unattended card-lock facilities are not required to designate a Class C operator. The designated Class B operator must be present on-site at least once per week to ensure proper operation and maintenance of the tank system.

Training for operators

Class A and B operator training

The MPCA formally reviews and approves all Class A and B operator training providers. If you have failed the exam or have significant violations found at your facility you will need to select one of the training providers below. Please note that the MPCA approves the content of the training, however there may be a charge which is independent from this approval and is determined by the training provider.

Class C operator training

The MPCA does not have a formal approval process for Class C operator training. The list of Class C operator training providers below is sorted alphabetically and is updated as providers contact the MPCA. The MPCA is not endorsing these companies nor providing testimonials about the quality of training. This list is supplied as a public service.

Note for training providers

Training providers must be approved by the MPCA by completing the application form. To develop training, providers should refer to the curriculum criteria; MPCA expects that training will achieve all of the objectives listed in this document. Trainers are subject to periodic audits.